Crolly Distillery - Croithlí Irish Whiskey

 Crolly Distillery is located in the picturesque village of Crolly (Croithlí in Irish) in County Donegal, Ireland

Today, Crollly Distillery continues the tradition of whiskey making using direct-fired pot stills sourced from the Cognac region and refurbished to produce beautiful spirits.  The distillery captures the essence of Donegal Gaeltacht whiskey, connecting people, culture, and place through its craft.

Today, I'll be reviewing Croithlí Quercus Robur, Quercus Alba and Sessile.

Croithlí Quercus Robur

Appearance: Deep amber glints of polished copper, the legs are slow and deliberate, hinting at a rich, oily texture.

Nose: A complex bouquet of dried fruits - figs, raisins, and apricots - mingles with the earthy aroma of aged oak (Quercus robur).  Subtle hints of dark chocolate, toasted almonds, and a whisper of smoldering peat smoke emerge, balanced by a touch of vanilla and orange zest.

Palate:  The first sip is a revelation: a bold, velvety texture coats the tongue. Flavors of caramelised brown sugar and spiced honey lead, followed by layers of dark cherry, leather, and a touch of clove. The oak influence is pronounced, offering notes of sandalwood and a faint nuttiness. A gentle smokiness lingers in the background, adding depth without overpowering.

Finish: Long and warming, with a satisfying interplay of sweet and savory.  The dried fruit notes return, accompanied by a lingering spiciness - cinnamon and white pepper - and a final whisper of oak tannins. The finish is rounded out by a touch of sea salt, leaving a memorable, slightly brinny aftertaste.

Croithlí Quercus Alba

Appearance: A luminous amber hue with legs that cling to the glass, leaving hints at its richness.

Nose: An elegant bouquet of toasted oak, vanilla, and honeyed apricots. Subtle hints of dried herbs, cinnamon and a whisper of smoke add complexity. A touch of floral notes, like heather or orange blossom, lingers in the background.

Palate: Smooth and velvety on the tongue, with a harmonious blend of flavors. Sweet caramel and ripe stone fruits (think peaches and plums) dominate, balanced by a gentle spiciness of white pepper and nutmeg.  The oak influence is present but restrained, offering a touch of almonds and a faint earthiness.

Finish: Long and warming, with a sweetness and spice. Notes of dark chocolate and a hint of leather emerge, leaving a lingering smoky aftertaste that invites another sip.

Croithlí Sessile

Appearance: The Croithlí Sessile boasts a deep, burnished copper colour with rich mahogany. Its viscosity is evident as it coats the glass, leaving slow, luxurious legs that promise a full-bodied and indulgent experience.

Nose: The aroma is bold, with a robust foundation of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and charred oak. Layers of dried figs, black cherry, and a touch of molasses add a deep, fruity sweetness. Hints of clove, allspice, and a faint smokiness weave through, while a subtle earthiness - reminiscent of a damp forest floor - adds intrigue.

Palate: On the plate, the Croithlí Sessile is rich and opulent, with a velvety texture that envelops the tongue. Flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and caramelized sugar dominate, complemented by the sweetness of dried fruits like raisins and dates. A robust spiciness of black pepper, clove and star anise emerges, balanced by a touch of leather and a deep, woody oak presence.

Finish: The finish is long and decadent, with a warming intensity that lingers. Notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and a hint of charred oak persist.

Sláinte Mhath!